Sources: Better treatment for animals

Problem 
Animal welfare is about the physical and mental wellbeing of animals. It covers a wide range of issues, such as wildlife trade, exploitation in research, animal farming or the use of animals for entertainment [1-4]. Welfare standards, when it comes to the treatment of animals, vary depending on geography and context and are highly debated amongst animal welfare groups, academics and legislative bodies [5,6]. Although most agree that animals should be treated humanely, global animal treatment monitoring is a complex issue. Disturbing reports of the cruel treatment of animals are still frequent.

Facts and Figures 

  • Due to genetic manipulation, 90 percent of broiler chickens (chickens bred for meat production) have trouble walking [7].

  • Over 115 million animals are killed in laboratory experiments worldwide for chemical, drug, food, and cosmetics testing every year [7].

  • 95 percent of pigs are raised on factory farms where they live in inhumane conditions [8]. 

  • One third of parrot species are in danger of being extinct because of the exotic bird trade [9].

  • While wild female orcas can live to be more than 100 years old, orcas in captivity often die by the time they reach their teens [10].

  • 96 percent of a circus animal’s life is spent in chains or cages [7].

Solution 
Research has shown that efficient farming and the upkeep of animal welfare is possible, yet more evidence-based work emphasising alternative solutions in this field is needed [11]. Improved monitoring and global partnerships are crucial steps for improving animal welfare. [12,13]. Campaigning and education on animal welfare are effective interventions to improve animal treatment [12]. Advocacy should focus on a legislative level in order to improve laws and implement internationally recognized certification schemes [14]. Interventions must emphasize seeking alternative solutions that provide economic incentives [15,16].

Sources

  1. politics.co.uk - Animal Welfare (link)
  2. Information Could Reduce Consumer Demand for Exotic Pets (research paper)
  3. Animal welfare and efficient farming: is conflict inevitable? (research paper)
  4. Zoo Animal Welfare (research paper)
  5. What is Animal Welfare and why is it important? (link)
  6. Institutional transparency improves public perception of lab animal technicians and support for animal research (research paper)
  7. DoSomething - 11 facts about animal cruelty (link)
  8. World Animal Protection - 7 Animal Cruelty Facts And What You Can Do to Change The Statistics (link)
  9. Petpedia.co - 37 Deeply Disturbing Animal Abuse Statistics & Facts (link)
  10. PETA - Aquariums and Marine Parks (link)
  11. Animal welfare and efficient farming: is conflict inevitable? (research paper)
  12. Global Trade in Exotic Pets 2006–2012 (research paper)
  13. The Supply Chain’s Role in Improving Animal Welfare (research paper)
  14. Best practice framework for animal welfare certification schemes (research paper)
  15. Practical strategies for improving farm animal welfare: an information resource (research paper)
  16. Improving Animal Welfare, 2nd Edition: A Practical Approach (book)